These Buffalo Cauliflower Wings are a fun twist on a classic snack! Made with crunchy cauliflower coated in spicy buffalo sauce, they’re perfect for game day or just a cozy night in.
Honestly, I can’t get enough of them! They give you all the flavor without the guilt. A side of ranch dressing makes them even better—trust me, you’ll be reaching for seconds! 🥦🔥
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cauliflower: Choose a large, fresh head of cauliflower for the best flavor and texture. If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cut florets, but fresh will give you a better crunch.
Flour: All-purpose flour works great, but you can use gluten-free flour if needed. I’ve also found that almond flour gives a nice nuttier flavor and a bit of extra crunch!
Buffalo Sauce: You can use store-bought buffalo sauce for convenience. If you prefer homemade, mixing hot sauce with melted butter works well. Always taste and adjust the spice level to your liking!
Butter: For a vegan version, use plant-based butter or olive oil. I’ve used both and they blend well with the sauce.
How Do You Get the Cauliflower Wings Extra Crispy?
The secret to crispy cauliflower wings is in the initial baking and tossing them in sauce afterward. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat your oven thoroughly! A high temperature helps create that crunch.
- Coat each piece of cauliflower evenly but shake off the excess batter before baking to avoid sogginess.
- Flip the florets halfway through baking—they need direct heat to crisp up.
- Don’t skip the second round of baking after tossing them in buffalo sauce; this helps set the sauce and keeps them crispy.
Following these steps makes a world of difference, and you’ll have wings that are both flavorful and crispy!
Buffalo Cauliflower Wings
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 large head cauliflower, cut into bite-sized florets
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 cup water
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 cup buffalo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp melted butter or vegan butter
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Ranch dressing or blue cheese dressing (for dipping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and then around 30-35 minutes of baking time. You’ll spend a few minutes getting your florets coated and then let the oven do its magic. Easy and fun!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). While that warms up, line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone mat to prevent sticking.
2. Make the Batter:
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, water, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper until you have a smooth batter. It should be thick enough to coat the cauliflower well.
3. Coat the Cauliflower:
Dip each cauliflower floret into the batter, making sure each piece is fully coated. Let any excess batter drip off before placing them onto the lined baking sheet. Spread them out in a single layer for even cooking.
4. First Bake:
Put the baking sheet in the oven and bake for 20 minutes. Remember to flip the florets halfway through to get them golden and crispy on all sides!
5. Prepare the Buffalo Sauce:
While the cauliflower is baking, mix together the buffalo sauce and melted butter in a small bowl. Stir well to combine. This will give your wings that spicy kick!
6. Toss in Sauce:
Once the cauliflower is done baking, remove it from the oven and carefully toss the florets in the buffalo sauce mixture until they’re completely coated.
7. Second Bake:
Return the coated cauliflower to the baking sheet and bake for another 10-15 minutes. This helps set the sauce and makes them extra crispy.
8. Garnish and Serve:
When they’re out of the oven, garnish your buffalo cauliflower wings with freshly chopped parsley. Serve them hot with ranch or blue cheese dressing on the side for dipping.
Enjoy your crispy, spicy Buffalo Cauliflower Wings!
Can I Use Frozen Cauliflower for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen cauliflower! Just make sure to thaw and thoroughly pat it dry before proceeding with the recipe. This helps prevent excess moisture, which can lead to sogginess.
How Can I Make These Wings Gluten-Free?
To make these Buffalo Cauliflower Wings gluten-free, simply substitute all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. The texture might vary slightly but should still turn out delicious!
Can I Prepare the Cauliflower in Advance?
Absolutely! You can pre-coat the cauliflower florets and store them in the fridge for up to 2 hours before baking. Just note that the batter might lose some of its crispness over time, so it’s best to bake them fresh when possible.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Wings?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, it’s best to use an oven or air fryer to restore their crispiness rather than the microwave.
